A workplace is no longer somewhere you go simply to get paid. It’s also somewhere you go to feel good. 

With the dawn of hybrid working, the higher expectations of younger workers, and the increased awareness of mental health issues, many employees are calling for healthier cultures that support their wellbeing. 

As a result, it’s an issue that you can no longer afford to ignore. By taking a holistic approach to wellbeing, you can adapt to changing times and not get left behind. 

What is employee wellbeing? 

Wellbeing means different things to different people. It's all about, for want of a better word, the happiness of your employees — plus the factors that contribute to it, like mental, physical and financial health. 

Because of this huge scope, strategies that improve wellbeing typically cover everything from bigger compensation packages through to emotional intelligence training to rethinking the entire company culture.  

What difference does is it make? 

It’s no secret that a happy workforce is a productive workforce. When employees feel respected, safe and supported, it gives them the inner momentum (and motivation) to succeed. 

Here are some key benefits of employee wellbeing: 

1. Better morale and engagement 

Research by leading HR body CIPD shows that when employees feel properly looked after, they’re more likely to work with a wholehearted commitment. 

Ultimately, it’s a two-way street: if you care more for your employees, they’ll care more about your company. 

2. Better staff retention  

Nothing turns employees off a business like poor treatment. 

When employers support their staff like human beings, rather than cogs in a machine, they’re far more likely to retain the best talent.  

3. Better resilience and attendance 

If your people have good mental health, they’re not just more likely to show up for work. 

They’re also better able to weather the daily challenges and setbacks of their projects, powering through them with a greater sense of optimism and perspective. 

4. A better company reputation 

A healthy culture can spill out into the wider world. If you get it right, people will spread the word about how great you are – which will help you attract stronger talent. 

After all, a healthy work environment is highly sought-after by most applicants. 

Employee wellbeing: Good for your peace of mind. Good for your bottom line. 

In this blog, we’ve focused a lot on the tangible returns of a healthy workforce. 

But it’s also worth stating the obvious: treating your teams with genuine respect, consideration and care is also something we all ought to be doing anyway. And as an employer, you’ll be amazed at how good you’ll feel yourself when you see your employees thriving. 

If you’re looking for some great ways to revamp your culture with wellbeing in mind, we’ve got some solid strategies you can put into place. And if you want to offer your employees a smart suite of wellbeing benefits? We’ve got that covered, too. 

For more support in building a healthy workplace, get advice from a Personal Group Benefits Expert or subscribe to more of our blogs.